Synthesis of Novel Oxynitride Structures by Soft Chemical Routes

1. Synthesis of Novel Oxynitride Structures by Soft Chemical Routes Neal M. Abrams SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry, Syracuse, NY 13210 The efficient capture and conversion of solar energy requires a photocatalyst with a small bandgap able to absorb visible wavelengths. Oxynitrides offer advantages of being relatively stable and eco-friendly materials. Compared to binary nitrides, rare-earth metaloxynitridesare air stable, similar to their oxide counterpart. Because of this increased stability, the physical and chemical characteristics can be exploited under ambient conditions. We are developing toolbox of synthetic solvothermal routes to oxynitrides materials. An impetus for this research is that oxynitrides show improved photocatalytic efficiency compared to the oxide analogs. Building upon the principle, we have also begun to develop a methodology for using natural (cellulosic) materials as templates for high-surface area oxynitrides. LaTiO2N 2 μm